Forest Tracker Injured in Lioness Attack in Amreli

Rajkot: A tracker with the forest department sustained injuries after being attacked by a lioness during a rescue and release operation near Rampara village in Rajula taluka of Amreli district on Sunday, officials said.

The incident occurred during a de-worming operation undertaken as part of the forest department’s summer management plan aimed at ensuring safer movement of Asiatic lions in the area.

Officials said the lioness had been captured earlier for treatment and was being released back into the forest when it suddenly became aggressive. The animal reportedly charged towards the team and attacked tracker Naka Ram, causing serious injuries.

Forest staff present at the spot immediately responded and rescued the injured tracker from the lioness, preventing further injuries.

He was later shifted to a hospital in Mahuva for medical treatment.

Dr. Jayanti Hadia, a surgeon treating the injured tracker, said a minor surgical procedure had been carried out and his condition was stable. “Although the injuries were serious, the patient is out of danger and remains under observation,” the doctor said.

The lioness involved in the incident, identified as “Lakshmi”, is known to roam in the Rampara, Bherai and Pipavav areas.

Following the incident, forest officials indicated that safety measures and operational protocols for personnel involved in wildlife rescue and release operations may be reassessed. Residents of nearby villages have also expressed concern and called for stricter monitoring to prevent similar incidents in the future. DeshGujarat